Pinnacle Preschool

20 YEARS | Pinnacle Presbyterian Preschool

Pinnacle Preschool opens in the church office building with 7 children and 2 teachers. Rev Janet Arbesman is school’s first Director

1994-95

Enrollment doubles to 15 students Carol Chamberlin becomes Director

1995-96

Enrollment more than doubles again; 38 students/4 teachers. Staff visit Reggio Emilia inspired school in Santa Monica

1996-97

Enrollment grows to 52 students and 6 teachers. Staff continue to evaluate the Reggio philosopy

1997-98

Preschool moves into new location and receives NAEYC accreditation. Officially adopts the “Reggio Emilia” inspired approach to early childhood education

1999-00

Teachers visit the Boulder Journey School in CO to learn more about the Reggio inspired approach. Playground sun shades are installed. Lisa Nichols becomes new director

2001-02

i n earl y childhood education celebrating excell ence 20 YEARS

Preschool celebrates 10th Anniversary. Staff attends NAEYC annual conference in Washington, DC. New computers and digital cameras in every classroom. Sabrina Ball joins as new director

2004-05

180 students, 10 classes and staff of 28. The Preschool wins grants from Arizona Commission on the Arts to begin the Tallulah Project. First Pumpkin Patch becomes annual fundraiser for Harmony Ministries in Haiti

2005-06

175 students in 9 classes and staff of 27. Director Sabrina Ball and studio teacher, Cheryl Lundberg, visit Reggio Emilia, Italy. Preschool receives NAEYC accreditation for the 2nd time. Tallulah Project completes work on “Family Tree” mosaic.

First Pancake Breakfast and Gingerbread Gathering. Preschool holds Hearts for Haiti Fundraiser after the earthquake for Harmony Ministries. Tallulah Project completes “Pinnacle Peak” at school entrance.

3rd Educator Conference “Creative Literacy” with Lella Gandini. New laptop computers in every classroom. The Empty Bowls Project begins benefiting UMOM.

2007-08 2009-10 2012-13

With 175 students in 9 classes and staff of 24 the Preschool celebrates its 20th Anniversary and certification from the Arbor Day Society as a Nature Explorer Playground.

2014-15